A simple day at camp for the Riders ahead of Green & White day

It was a cloudy and cooler day for the Saskatchewan Roughriders during day six of training camp.

With a busy weekend ahead for the Green and White, the team saw a shorter and more relaxed practice.

The Roughrider’s head coach Corey Mace said that was by design.

“We’re trying to stay focused on the main thing and that’s.., getting ready for a preseason game on Monday,” said Mace. “You want to take care of the guy’s legs a little bit.”

There were no complaints amongst the players when it came to the easier day of work.

“Coach Mace is a big, big person on hard work,” said Frankie Hickson, Running Back. “When he tells you to slow it down, and lets you focus on the mental side of things, and the recovery side of things, more so than the physical things – you listen up to him.”

The Riders will hold their annual Green and White Day at the Saskatoon Minor Football (SMF) Field in Saskatoon before Monday’s preseason game.

“We’re gonna end up having a good practice out there and still put on a show for the crowd,” said Mace.

Mace said everyone is excited to get out there and into a game-like atmosphere.

“(We’re) looking forward to the State of the Nation as well, getting to talk with some of the fans,” said Mace.

As for the fans, there is a lot to look forward to, it’ll be the first chance to get a glimpse into what the Roughriders could look like this year.

Mace said there will be excitement on both ends of the ball.

“(Our) offence has been doing a great job moving the field,” said Mace. “Guys flying around on defence, they’ve been hawking at the ball and certainly the battle from day one to current day between the trenches with the big boys has been ferocious.”

Frankie Hickson said Green and White Day is a magical event.

“I’m looking forward to the fan turnout. It’s always amazing to see how the community comes to support us,” said Hickson. “Also, to see the young guys get a glimpse of what the community is like and what it’s like to play in Saskatchewan.”

Zakoby McClain, Linebacker said he can’t wait to get into the game-like atmosphere.

“I’m really excited to get the chance to show the fans how good I am,” said McClain. “I heard the atmosphere is amazing up here.”

As for Monday’s preseason game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, McClain said there’s one thing that he’s really looking forward to,“I’m so excited, I ain’t hit nobody in so long.”

Clint Ratkovich, Fullback said when things start ramping up into game-time action, it’s the best time of year.

“It’s what you work all year for,” said Ratkovich. “It’s awesome to suit up against someone else.”

Gates open at noon at SMF on Saturday for Green & White Day, with a State of the Nation starting at 1 p.m.